Sunkoshi Hydro repair works to cost Rs 150 million

SINDHUPALCHOWK, Jan 21:

An estimated Rs 150 million will be required to repair Sunkoshi Hydropower Project which was damaged by landslides in Kanle of Mankha VDC of last year, according to a joint report prepared by different government bodies.

A joint team of Nepal Electricity Authority, Department of Water Induced Disaster Prevention and Department of Roads (DoR) prepared cost estimation for rehabilitation of the damaged project.

"A joint team was formed to estimate the cost for repair works as the landslide has damaged road and hydropower project as well as property of locals," Badri Phuyal, production chief of Sindupalchowk-Dolakha branch of Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA), said. "It will help us take repair works forward in a coordinated manner."

The landslide had inflicted huge damage on the 10.02-megawatt project. Though the project started power generation from November 25, 2014, officials say huge funding is required to bring the project into previous condition.

Two out of 10 iron gates of the canal and dam were completely destroyed by the landslide. The landslide also damaged turbine, generator and other equipment of the hydro project.
According to Phuyal, the project is generating 6 MW of electricity at present.

NEA has decided to expedite maintenance works through ´fast track´ mode so that the project can withstand the rainy season. Phuyal said NEA would soon invite tender for repair works.

Source: Republica